Art, Prechewed

Perhaps Canadian artist Jason Kronenwald was inspired by the undersides of high school lunch tables. If not, I can’t explain the genesis of his “paintings” on plywood colored with prechewed bubblegum.

Kronenwald uses this unlikely medium to create likenesses of fair-haired celebrities, from Hillary Clinton to Paris Hilton. In fact, his “Gum Blondes” are currently on display in Toronto’s LE Gallery. The gallery’s website explains:

Each Gum Blonde is 100% chewed Bubblegum on a plywood backing. No paint or dye is used. The colour is inherent to the gum—the mixing of colour takes place inside the mouth during chewing. Kronenwald has a dedicated team of chewers and prefers the texture of Trident. However, he does not chew gum himself unless he must.

The big question is, how does one get hired on to his “dedicated team of chewers,” and is this a paid position?